Originally published: May 28, 2013

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The Scoop

There are certain cars that make a statement but can back it up if need be. The BMW 3 Series is one of those cars. Buyers choose this compact luxury sedan because it evokes a sense of prestige, yet it is attainable for many upwardly mobile singles, couples and families. The BMW brand has long been coveted by several sets of buyers. There are the ones that like to be seen in a prestige car, the ones that appreciate the engineering that is baked into these products and the ones that prefer a true driver’s car. The BMW 3 Series, especially the powerful 335i version, delivers on all three fronts. The base 335i is expensive, but not too expensive that it can’t be purchased by the masses, it has a luxury car pedigree and goes like stink. The less expensive 328i has many of the same attributes but last year, when this new body style was introduced, it was fitted with a four-cylinder turbo. Not the case with the 335i, it still comes with BMW’s legendary in-line six-cylinder — plus a turbocharger.

The Skin

This latest body, or platform, is called the F30 — in BMW speak. The body is lighter and bigger than the last model so space has been improved along with fuel economy. The 3 Series has grown so much that it is almost the same size as the BMW 5 Series sold just 10 years ago. This is another reason this new car is selling so well, it can now provide enough space for all passengers, something the older models couldn’t accomplish. It was roughly 10 years ago that BMW changed their design architecture under the guidance of head designer Chris Bangle. This made the 3, 5 and 7 Series sedans look very different from one another. Fast forward to the latest designs, minus Chris Bangle at the helm, and there is a cohesive design incorporated into all three lines to the point that the new 3 Series can look like a 5 from just a few paces away.

The Cockpit

BMW is not an automotive company that strays too far from what works on the inside of their products.

The minimalist dashboard layout and simple gauge readouts can be called drab or boring, but after spending time in this new 3 Series, the simplicity provides a focus on driving, not on glitz.

The upside to the new interior is the level of materials used, they are second to none and the finish is fantastic. One area that still confounds me, after 10-plus years of trying to adapt, is the iDrive computer interface system.

Yes, it is better than in the past, and the big centre mounted screen is beautiful, but it isn’t logical — to me, at least. The lack of volume control next to the iDrive controller is something that should be rectified. In comparison, the Audi MMI system is so intuitive that it can be mastered quickly. Seating is fantastic; the optional sports seats provide plenty of adjustment, especially thigh support.

The Ride

The whole automotive community, not just BMW, is moving toward smaller turbocharged engines.

The previous entry-level engines were smaller in-line six-cylinder motors that produced a lovely smooth power band, but are not that efficient.

With the arrival of this current car, the base engine is now a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo affair with 181 horsepower in the 320i or 241 hp on the 328i.

The 328i is a great all around vehicle, proving to be faster than the last 328i and more efficient.

It is the sound of the new four-cylinder that many buyers cannot get used to.

That slightly buzzy motor is not as throaty as the in-line 3.0-litre turbo six-cylinder found in the 335i.

There is more power and punch too, with 300 hp and 300 lb.-ft of torque at the driver’s disposal.

The balance of sound, grunt and passing power is pure joy.

I’ve considered the 335i engine one of the best engines of the past 10 years and I stand by that.

The good, the bad

Good:

A well-balanced and powerful everyday car.

Bad:

iDrive is still half baked and the price can get very high.

Zack’s verdict

The 3 Series from BMW has long been the benchmark used by other companies in terms of driving dynamics. While the 320i and 328i are capable cars, the 335i really is the one that driving enthusiasts should aspire to own.

Since more and more people are looking for all- wheel-drive vehicles, BMW has obliged in all but the base 320i.

The older all-wheel drive cars looked like they sat too high off the wheels but not any longer; the stance looks about right. The price of the 335i is $51,200 for the rear-wheel-drive and $53,800 for the AWD model, but expect to pay even more for items like the M Sport Package ($2300) or the Premium Package ($4500).

The car seen here is kitted out the tune of $70,050.

Ouch.

This is why the 328i sells so well, it is $7,600 cheaper.

So, if you think you might be in the category of driving enthusiast, the 335i is the one to get. You will not be disappointed.